President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned Section III of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway, covering the Zaria–Kano corridor, in a move expected to improve road safety and boost commercial activities across Northern Nigeria.
Tinubu was represented at Wednesday’s commissioning ceremony by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The expressway serves as a major transportation link connecting Kano with Kaduna and other parts of the country, supporting the movement of commuters, traders, commercial drivers and transport operators.
The completion of the Zaria–Kano section is expected to improve driving conditions, reduce risks associated with damaged road surfaces and help minimise road accidents and avoidable loss of lives along the busy route.
The highway is particularly important to Kano, a major commercial and industrial hub whose economy relies heavily on the movement of people and goods across state boundaries.
The improved road is also expected to ease the transportation of agricultural produce, manufactured goods and other commodities between Kano, Kaduna and neighbouring states.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Yusuf commended Tinubu for prioritising infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening transportation, trade and economic development in Northern Nigeria.
He said efficient road infrastructure was essential for connecting communities, facilitating the movement of goods and services, and creating a more conducive environment for businesses.
Yusuf noted that the Kano–Zaria corridor plays a critical role in regional commerce because of Kano’s position as a major trading centre serving several states across the North.
He added that sustained investment in critical infrastructure could support agricultural production, expand market access and create more opportunities for traders, transport operators and other businesses.
The governor also called for continued collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments to address infrastructure challenges and accelerate development.
He urged the Federal Government to sustain investment in road construction and rehabilitation across Kano State, emphasising the need for durable roads capable of withstanding heavy traffic.
The Kano State Government also appealed to motorists using the improved highway to observe speed limits, avoid dangerous overtaking and comply with traffic regulations to promote safer journeys.
